The 33rd annual ESPY Awards unfolded on July 16, 2025, at Los Angeles’s Dolby Theatre, broadcasting live on ABC and hosted by comedian Shane Gillis . The star-studded event showcased performances by Busta Rhymes, Clipse, GELO, and Tobe Nwigwe, framing a ceremony that honored both athletic prowess and cultural influence.
Simone Biles stood out as a dominant force, winning two top honors: Best Female Athlete and Best Championship Performance for her gold‑medal all‑around victory at the Paris Olympics . During her acceptance speech, Biles delivered an emotional tribute to victims of recent Central Texas floods, underscoring her commitment to community awareness .
On the men’s side, NBA superstar Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander was awarded Best Male Athlete. Fresh from leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to their first championship and earning NBA Finals MVP honors, “SGA” expressed heartfelt thanks to his support system after a light-hearted technical glitch early in his speech .
The Icon Award was presented jointly to soccer legend Alex Morgan and WNBA star Diana Taurasi, recognizing their lasting impact on women’s sports. Taurasi, retiring this year as the WNBA’s all‑time leading scorer, used her moment to salute her immigrant parents and encourage aspiring athletes .
Other notable winners included Suni Lee, who earned Best Comeback Athlete after overcoming rare kidney illnesses; and Ilona Maher, the first rugby player to secure Best Breakthrough Athlete honors for her advocacy in body positivity and female empowerment . The Arthur Ashe Courage Award went to NBA Hall of Famer Oscar Robertson, while the Pat Tillman Award for Service was bestowed upon former athletes-turned-firefighters David Walters and Erin Regan . Katie Schumacher-Cawley, Penn State’s volleyball coach who continued to lead her team while battling cancer, received the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance .
Additional awards spanned the athletic spectrum: Cameron Boozer and Jane Hedengren took home Gatorade Player of the Year honors, while Saquon Barkley earned acclaim for Best NFL Player and Best Play. Caitlin Clark was recognized as Best WNBA Player . The ceremony featured unforgettable moments—from inspirational speeches and sporting milestones to high-energy musical performances—highlighting a celebration of triumph, resilience, and teamwork .
The 2025 ESPYs emphasized the deep connection between athletic excellence and social impact, spotlighting figures who have shaped not just their sports but also broader culture. With a blend of nostalgia, empowerment, and entertainment, the event honored a diverse array of talent whose influence transcends borders and disciplines.
